David Ryan said he was walking along the path near the Camden Haven Surf Life Saving Club, when he saw 10 to 15 jet ski riders travelling at speed. 

Mr Ryan said he estimated the riders were travelling at 60 to 80km/h over the top of dolphins. The riders were reportedly harassing the animals. 

“There appeared to be no consideration to the creatures in the water and despite my shouting at them to take care for the dolphins, they failed to slow down,”  Mr Ryan said. 

Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) director Angus Mitchell is urging the public to report any waterway issues on the dedicated line, 13 12 36.

Mr Mitchell said boating safety officers carry out regular patrols of all NSW navigable waterways, including the Camden Haven. 

He said the officers enforce compliance with marine and environmental legislation.

Personal Water Craft (PWC) riders must hold a PWC licence and display a registration number so they can be identified and obey regulations. 

“Or they will face fines and possible licence disqualification,” Mr Mitchell said. 

The RMS requires all vessels to travel at a safe speed. 

“ A safe speed is not expressed in knots because it varies with location and conditions,” Mr Mitchell said. 

“Unless signposted, it is a speed at which the vessel can be stopped in time to avoid any danger which may suddenly arise.

“PWC riders must consider a number of issues including visibility, other vessels, navigation hazards, wind, waves and currents, waterway width and the manoeuvrability of the vessel.”

Mr Mitchell said the public should contact NSW Parks and Wildlife to report any wildlife issues by phoning 1300 361 967.

He said boat operators, including those on jet skis, must remain a safe distance from whales and dolphins or they can face fines.

For more information regarding the vessel safety rules for travelling near marine animals visit https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/documents/maritime/safety-rules